England coach Eddie Jones is backing Maro Itoje to fill Chris Robshaw’s shoes and make a big impression against France in today’s Six Nations opener at Twickenham.

Itoje switches from second row to make his first start at blindside flanker in the absence of Robshaw, who has played a key role in England’s run of 14 unbeaten matches since Jones took charge and is sidelined by a shoulder injury.

Jones has no doubts that Itoje will make the switch a success as England begin their title defence against Guy Noves’s improving side.